NORTHWICH’S MP is encouraging caravan and camping sites to raise awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning throughout the summer months.

Graham Evans MP has written to parks and camping sites across Weaver Vale, asking them to take action.

Tragic deaths occur every year from summertime carbon monoxide poisoning, normally caused by people taking gas or charcoal barbecues into tents and other enclosed spaces.

Mr Evans said: “Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas – often dubbed the silent killer – and can kill quickly if inhaled in high concentrations.

“The symptoms of poisoning are similar to flu or food poising, and include headaches, nausea and dizziness.

“Most people don’t think of carbon monoxide poisoning as a threat in summer months.

“Faulty household boilers or other heating appliances are usually thought of as the most dangerous equipment, but summertime recreational equipment, such as charcoal barbecues and portable gas stoves, can also produce lethal doses of the gas, especially within confined spaces such as tents.

“It’s vital that people take the simple summer steps to save lives from CO poisoning.”

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Mr Evans is urging caravan and camping sites to remind people of these top safety tips:

- Never take a barbecue into a tent, caravan or motor home. A warm, smouldering barbecue will give off poisonous carbon monoxide.

- Never place a lit barbecue near the sleeping area outside your tent.

- Never use a fuel-burning appliance to heat your tent or awning. Gas and kerosene heaters, unless they are permanently fitted in a caravan or motor home, should only be used outside.

- Never run a gas, petrol, or diesel-powered generator inside a caravan, motor home, tent or awning.

- Do not cook with a stove inside your tent or awning, unless there is an area specifically designed for this purpose and you are sure there is adequate ventilation.

- Always use a portable carbon monoxide alarm.